By: SIERRA SMALLS-GREER
After turning 18, we all want a new sense of independence. People earn it in different ways such as: going off to a college far from home, living alone in that first apartment or even backpacking across Europe.
In an eager attempt to find independence, we don’t think about the dangers of doing things alone– especially living alone– and what factors should be considered when moving especially as a single person.
This article will touch on some safety measures that could be taken to protect you both in your new space and outside of it.
As seen in other articles such as “College Girl Safety” you know that women are the most preyed on by sex offenders between the ages of 17 and 22 years old. Knowing this and deciding to live alone, there should be some precautions taken when finding that first apartment.
At this age we may not have the funds to find the best gated community there is in the city but looking for an apartment with a gating system or concierge could eliminate outsiders following you into your apartment complex.
Another good alternative is looking for an apartment with a garage. Safety at your fingertips is the feeling you have with a garage remote in your hand coming home from grocery shopping at 11 at night.
You should take safety precautions indoor too.
One of the first things you should do when moving in is getting an alarm system. Most young people think that an alarm system is just another thing they can do without, but honestly it may be one of the most important and simple safety measures that can be taken.
Secondly, Remember all those old cell phones you used to have just laying around? Use them! Charge them up and sit them in different drawers around the house in case of emergency. Even though they don’t work to call friends anymore, they can always call 911.
Third, if you don’t feel safe with just the locks on your door, put a chair against the door before you go to sleep. This could keep intruders out or wake you up when being moved around.
Last but not least, be sure to keep first aid kits, mace and flashlights at various places around the house.
I hope that these tips help you on your first adventure.
Happy Apartment Shopping!
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